Thankful for YOU

As Denver Zoo Looks Ahead to an Exciting 2020, We Look Back at Everyone Who Supported Our Mission in 2019

Happy New Year!  

Looking back at 2019, we have so much to be grateful for. From breaking ground on our new animal hospital, to welcoming new babies like Tatu the African lion, Kesi the mandrill and many more.  

Our Tropical Discovery team successfully hatched, raised and returned 620 boreal toads to their natural habitat, while keepers and Certified Veterinary Technicians traveled to South Africa to assist in the rescue of abandoned lesser flamingo chicks. 

More than anything though, we are grateful for you! In 2019, your visits and generosity made a significant impact on Denver Zoo’s conservation, education, and animal care efforts. Without you, none of the following would have been possible.  

Emergency Rescue Efforts in Vietnam

In Indonesia and Thailand, the trade of Asian small-clawed otters as pets is threatening their survival in the wild. Recently, the illegal pet trade of these animals has made its way to Vietnam. The dedicated staff at Save Vietnam’s Wildlife is committed to rehabilitating these otters, but since there’s hardly any research on how to do this successfully, they needed to prepare for a longer-term solution and called on Denver Zoo to help.  

Thanks to our donors, Denver Zoo was able to contribute significant funding to help the wildlife rescuers build enclosures to house the growing number of otters that need help. Your support ensured the health and safety of these mistreated animals.  

A New Way to Explore Nature

 Children have a wonderful instinct for playing in nature, but living in an urban setting, like Denver, they don’t always have the opportunity to do so. Here at Denver Zoo, we believe that nature play is good for kids, and good for nature. It helps build strong muscles and bones, lets kids practice social skills like negotiation, communication and problem solving, and is even good for emotional health and wellbeing. It also encourages children and their families to value and protect the natural world. 

Now at Denver Zoo, families can explore and play in nature at the brand new Zofnass Barclay Family Nature Play Trail. This unmanicured space, funded by our generous donors, will encourage exploration and an appreciation for the outdoors.  

Taking Care of Tatu

On July 25th, the world was introduced to Tatu, Denver Zoo’s newest African lion cub. Like most newborns, Tatu requires extra care to ensure a healthy and happy upbringing. Thanks to our generous donors, we were able to raise over $20,000.00 for Tatu’s baby registry. 

We also raised more than $11,000 through our naming contest, where people donated online and at the Zoo and chose between three names, Moremi, Meru and the eventual winner – Tatu! 

Your donations contributed to our carcass feeding program, providing proper and complete nutrition to Tatu. Additionally, through your generosity we were able to provide extra vet check-ups, lion-sized toys, and enrichment items that encourage curiosity, muscle development, and socialization.  

The Future of Denver Zoo

 Last year, Denver Zoo broke ground on our new, state-of-the-industry animal hospital. Once complete, the Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Animal Hospital will advance our ability to provide exceptional care for our nearly 3,000 animals. 

At 22,000 square feet, the hospital will house a world-class diagnostic laboratory, indoor and outdoor holding and quarantine spaces, advanced treatment rooms and surgery suites. It will also be equipped with the latest technology, including one of the only animal hospital CT scanners in the country and vital plasma transfusion equipment. Your generous contributions are enabling our team to provide top-of-the-line treatment, ensuring our animals a lifetime of comfort and care.  

You, our friends and supporters, made a difference in the lives of animals here at Denver Zoo, and around the globe. For that, we are forever grateful.